By Nelly Keung, Jul 4 2017 08:44PM

Summer heralds the start of a more outdoor fun and enjoying the things you love. However, the sun and high temperatures come at a price and it is our skin that pays the ultimate price.

Sun damage leads to premature aging of the skin, wrinkles, blemishes, dryness and over time, skin cancer. Summer time, therefore, demands careful thought for your skin.

What are the effects?

So, how exactly does the sun's rays impact your skin and what is the difference between all those UVs? UVA, or Ultraviolet A (the longest wavelength of the sun). It penetrates the dermis, your skin's deepest layer. Sun damage can activate free radicals and promote skin aging. UVB, or Ultraviolet B, penetrates the skin's epidermis, the upper layer. These rays cause sunburn, allergic reactions that usually filtered by the ozone layer and they are the most damaging rays. Then there is IR, or Infra-red, which refers to the heat from the sun. Too much of it can negatively impact collagen, elastin and your immune system.

How to protect yourself?

Choosing the sunscreen that is right for you is vital, however, it should never be the only protection we take. Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day. When you are out, cover up as much skin as you can with light-weight clothing. Wear a hat to protect the delicate skin on your face and wear sunglasses to protect against premature aging as well as cataracts and melanomas of the eye.

Tan 'responsibly'!

Did you know that sunbathing will add a good 20 years to your age by dehydrating and wrinkling the skin? No-one wants that, so ditch the obsession for a tan... it really isn't worth it. Becoming sun aware will protect your skin and health for the future, leaving you free to enjoy all that summer has to offer and 'tan responsibly'.